Biography
In 1974 the pioneering Afro-Bloco Ilê Ayiê came into being. That ensemble prompted the rise of additional Afro-Blocos, among them Olodum, Muzenza, Ara Ketu, and Malê Debalê, whose emergence proved essential to the birth of the samba/reggae style. A circle of residents from Salvador’s Liberdade borough founded Ilê Aiyê with the aim of bolstering Negro self-esteem by means of a fresh form of Carnival organization. Their sound fused the traditional samba duro with the ijexá rhythm of candomblé, the ceremony with which most members maintain close ties. Racial pride dictates that Ilê Aiyê remain an exclusively black Bloco, barring white participation altogether. The group’s original designation, Poder Negro (Black Power), sparked repeated clashes with the authorities. Ilê Aiyê translates as Negro Shelter. Costumes are drawn from extensive study of African traditions, their palette representing blood spilled during slavery (red), collective strength (yellow), skin tone (black), and peace (white). The Bloco adheres to Rastafarian culture and philosophy while sustaining vigorous community programs; its headquarters house schools attended by 4,000 underprivileged local children as well as vocational training centers.